Mosquitoes in Virginia
Known for their itchy bites, mosquitoes are far more dangerous than most people realize. These insects are responsible for transmitting life-threatening diseases such as malaria, West Nile, and Zika virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that mosquito bites result in more than 1 million deaths annually, mostly due to malaria. In the U.S., there are roughly 200 species of mosquitoes, inhabiting areas as diverse as low-elevation deserts and high-altitude mountain meadows.
Mosquito Habitat
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant or slow-moving water, typically found in marshes and lakes. However, they can also lay eggs in containers holding as little as half an inch of standing water, such as kiddie pools, buckets, and flower pots. This highlights the importance for homeowners to routinely check their property for water-collecting objects, as they provide the ideal environment for mosquitoes to reproduce and thrive.
Mosquito Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Most mosquito species need a blood meal to reproduce. While mosquito bites generally only cause itchy welts in people and animals, the diseases mosquitoes transmit can be serious. These include viruses like West Nile and Zika, which can lead to long-term health complications. Many individuals infected by mosquitoes show no symptoms or only mild, flu-like signs, but a small number can experience severe symptoms. Furthermore, mosquitoes are known to spread heartworm in dogs.
Due to the dangers mosquitoes pose, it’s essential to reach out to a professional mosquito exterminator for exclusion and control services.